Vineyards & Wine Tours - Wanaka, New Zealand

At 45° south, Central Otago vineyards form the world's southern-most wine-making region. The vines are planted amongst spectacular alpine scenery and are the highest in New Zealand with most vineyards located between 200 and 400 metres above sea level.

Although small, Central Otago is a rapidly developing wine growing region, with an international reputation for the best Pinot Noir in the world. More than 70% of grapes grown in Central Otago are Pinot Noir, with other varieties including Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, and to a lesser extent Sauvignon Blanc. Production of sparkling wine, traditionally made from Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes, has been small but the high quality achieved has seen the wines well received.

Now with over 45 wineries in the region, Central Otago has earned its reputation as one of the premier New World wine producing areas. Many vineyards offer cellar door tastings and sales, with restaurants set amongst the vines and stunning views.

The shores of Lake Wanaka are the location for the world-famous Rippon Vineyard, one of the first in the Southern Lakes region and arguably the most beautiful setting for a vineyard anywhere in the world. Wanaka is also home to Mount Maude which produces some excellent wine from its Maungawera Valley location.

Nearby Bannockburn is home to a number of acclaimed wineries, notably Mount Difficulty and Carrick Estate, whose vines line the steep hillsides amid the sluicings left over from the gold rush era 100 years before. Further along the Kawarau River towards Queenstown lies the Gibbston Valley, also known as the ‘ Valley of Vines'. Chard Farm is perched high above the Kawarau Gorge while just down the valley, Gibbston Valley Wines are not only renowned for their award-winning wines but also for their delicious cheese which is made on the premises. Peregrine winery makes an excellent pinot gris and further along the road at Lake Hayes, Amisfield's bubbly is a great choice for a celebration.

All the Central Otago wineries are within easy reach of Lake Wanaka, either as part of an organised tour with experienced wine guides or as a self-drive exploration.